For our fourth challenge of the 2024-2025 program year, we partnered with Give Merit, a Detroit-based nonprofit that removes barriers to success through individually-focused programs, products, and places that transform mindsets and skills. Fellows created recommendations and tangible work products that focused on community engagement for Merit Park, a park in 48204 where Detroit youth will come to learn, explore career opportunities, aspire, connect—and have fun.  Teams of Fellows worked alongside Give Merit leadership – Tanisha Streeter, Kuhu Saha and David Merritt – as well as engaged with stakeholders, including 48204 residents, teens and youth as well as neighborhood school Mackenzie Elementary-Middle School students, parents and staff. Learn more about the project from the Fellow perspective! 

As part of our Challenge Detroit fellowship, we led efforts to deepen engagement between Merit Park and schools within Detroit’s 48204 footprint. Our focus was on building long-term, reciprocal partnerships that integrate the park as an extension of learning not just a destination. By conducting stakeholder interviews, designing awareness materials, and developing field trip guides and engagement tools, we created resources that reflect the needs of both students and educators. 

Fellows (L to R): Ayla Hoermann, Chanale Greer, Mandolyn Hanson, Kaden Yates, Daphne Donigan

“Working with Give Merit on the new Merit Park project really helps our heart grow even fonder for Detroit. We love when others love Detroit and its future leaders as well!”

Get a glimpse of the project presentation where Fellows presented to our partners, their stakeholders, and host companies here.

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